People heading away for the August bank holiday are being urged to carry out four simple security checks before leaving home, as new figures reveal 2.8 million theft incidents were recorded in the last year. The latest ONS data shows theft inside and outside of homes has risen by 21%, prompting security experts to warn holidaymakers not to leave their homes as an easy target for opportunistic thieves over the long weekend.
Four-step ‘SAFE’ acronym
With thousands of properties expected to be left unattended, experts at online security retailer Safe.co.uk have created a simple four-step ‘SAFE’ acronym to help Brits protect their homes before heading away. Home security expert Anthony Neary said that while many steps might seem routine, millions of people fail to carry them out – leaving their homes at dire risk.
Despite tens of thousands of people falling victim to burglars, just one in 20 cases resulted in criminal charges, despite police promising to attend every reported break-in. Figures show that thieves raided 100,000 homes and 27,000 sheds or outbuildings in 2024 yet two-thirds of those cases remain "unresolved" - often because a suspect has not been identified or there is insufficient evidence to bring charges. And less than 5% of reports to police resulted in a suspect being charged.
‘A consequence-free crime’
The figures were branded "a national disgrace" by Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp. He said: "Britain has reached the point where burglary is effectively a consequencefree crime."
Security expert Anthony said amid the crime surge it is crucial for people to try and ensure they don't fall victim by taking simple preventative measures. He said: “Many of these security steps might seem obvious, but they’re often the easiest things to forget to do when you’re rushing to leave the house. An unlocked window, an unset alarm or valuables left in plain sight can create a tempting opportunity for thieves. Taking just five minutes to follow our ‘SAFE’ rule creates a simple routine to make sure the basics aren’t overlooked and your home is left as protected as possible.”
What the ‘SAFE’ rule involves
S - Secure all windows, doors and outbuildings
Anthony said: “Doors and windows are the most visible entry points, so check they are all properly closed and locked, including those at the back of the property. Don’t forget to lock sheds, garages and other outbuildings either, as these can contain valuable tools, bikes and equipment that can be easy targets for thieves.”
A - Activate alarms, cameras and security lights
Anthony advises: “Before leaving homes to enjoy bank holiday weekend plans, make sure alarms are set, all cameras are working and that security lights are activated. As we reach the end of August, the evenings are already starting to draw in, so lighting around entrances and darker areas can be particularly useful for making homes more difficult to access.”
F - Find valuables a safer spot
Anthony urged: “Before you leave, take a quick look around your home to check what can be seen through windows and glazed doors. Keys, laptops, tablets and other valuables should be moved out of sight as leaving expensive items on display can attract unnecessary attention. It only takes a minute, but it’s an easy step to overlook when you’re hurrying to get away for the weekend.”
E - Eliminate easy access to the property
Anthony added: “Take a minute to remove anything that could make accessing your home easier. It can take a matter of minutes for burglars to enter and leave with your valuables, so moving ladders, bins and tools to a secure place can make homes more difficult and therefore less appealing to target. It's also important to remember these four words - secure, activate, find and eliminate. It's crucial that people always take that extra five minutes before you head off on your trip. It could really mean the difference between a break in and a safe house.”
